Liz Shivener is one of those talented actors who was fortunate enough to land two big leads right out of college.

The “small town girl” from Reynoldsburg, Ohio graduated from Otterbein University with a BSA in musical theatre and was “incredibly fortunate” to earn her first role playing the lead role in “Beauty and the Beast,” then spending an hour putting on makeup for her leading role as Fiona in “Shrek: The Musical”.

“I’m lucky,” she said. “It takes two hours for the Shrek role.”

Shivener can’t wait to get to Providence, where she enjoyed dining at AS220 during her week run in “Beauty and the Beast” in 2009.

“I’m a vegetarian and a foodie and ate at AS220 almost every day,” she said. “I also love the city, even though it will be colder than Sarasota, Fla.,” (where she is performing now) before a stop in Hershey, Pa. and then a Christmas break.”

“Shrek follows the storyline of the first movie,” she said. “I love the role of Fiona. She’s feisty and fun to play. She struggles with her role as a classic princess, trying to be what is expected of her while being true to who she really is. I guess the message is: To thine own self be true.”

“Shrek: The Musical” has been a big hit on Broadway, where people of all ages have enjoyed the Dreamworks characters, including a talkative donkey, a villain, a cookie and over a dozen fairy tale characters you will recognize.

With a score of 19 songs, lots of laughs, great dancing and spectacular scenery, the production can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

You can start off the New Year on a positive note with yet another family-friendly show at the Providence Performing Arts Center. “Shrek” plays Jan. 3-8. For tickets call 421-ARTS.